<p>My D is a sophomore health science major at UB. I’d give UB high marks for campus life and for the sciences. Loads of interesting research going on, very good professors, always something to do on-campus, easy to access public transport for off-campus activities and airport travel, and a very diverse student body. They don’t have a beautiful campus, unless you like clean, modern lines, but their facilities are excellent and very well maintained with interconnected buildings on the academic spine (this is Buffalo!) and a tunnel under the main dorm complex for students who want to take the shuttle around campus. Although some people are put off by the sheer size of UB during their initial visit, it actually feels pretty homey - like a small town - once you’re settled in and familiar with the layout! The size then becomes an advantage for opportunities, services, housing/dining options and course offerings…there are so many majors, minors, clubs, etc. to choose from, which is helpful for those who are undecided or have varied interests!</p>
<p>The drawback to UB, which is common to many schools, is that the freshman/lower-div lecture sections tend to be quite large (150-200). Their labs and recitation sections are much smaller, of course, and their honors seminars, if your S is likely to be invited to join the honors college, can help with that problem. </p>
<p>Good luck on your journey! I would only add that it’s impossible to see all of UB or really even hear about all they have to offer in a day. If they make your son’s list, a second visit is recommended - the accepted student days, held in the spring, draw large numbers but are managed very efficiently and offer much more info/opportunites to see the campus and interact with faculty/staff than the general visits.</p>